Stokes State Forest offers equestrian camping with dedicated sites that accommodate horse trailers. Located in Sussex County at elevations between 400-1,650 feet, the forest experiences seasonal temperature shifts ranging from 80°F in summer to below freezing in winter. Water access points throughout the camping areas provide convenient locations for horses, with sites configured to allow easy access to trailheads.
What to do
Trail riding networks: Multiple interconnected bridle paths at Stokes State Forest allow riders to explore diverse terrain. "Sussex county is beautiful. Stokes is such a peaceful campground! We stay in the cabins. It's great to have the small kitchen when camping with the family," notes Amy B., who frequents the area.
Waterfront activities: Fishing and paddling opportunities exist at Spruce Run Recreation Area, where campsites border the reservoir. "The grounds are full of grass which makes my tent easy to pitch. Most campsite has a view of the Reservoir when sundown has amazing sunsets," reports Yolanda T., highlighting the accessible shoreline.
Hiking excursions: Multiple trail difficulties accommodate various skill levels, with route options extending into neighboring parks. As Josh S. explains after exploring Lake Ocquittunk, "After packing up we drove down the road and were able to get in a nice 5 mile hike up to the fire tower. Due to cooler temps there were really no bugs to complain about while camping."
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Lake Ocquittunk offers sites with direct water views. "We stayed at site #T007 is was a short walk from the car to the site, but so worth it for many reasons. The site itself is huge and we were able to position our tent facing the lake, it was beautiful!" reports Kara L.
Accessible natural features: Many horse-friendly sites connect directly to natural attractions. "We stayed on a beautiful mossy bank, next to a river and a lake. The area was quiet and peaceful, and areas with waterfalls and great views were easily accessable," notes Kiya N. about her experience at Stokes.
Quality facilities: Many campers appreciate the maintenance and cleanliness of facilities at horse campgrounds near Oakland. Catherine S. notes about Lake Ocquittunk: "The bathrooms are clean and nicely placed. The sites had a fire ring with a cooking grate and a picnic table and were well spaced out from other sites."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts trail conditions significantly from April through October. Adeline M. found at Mohican Outdoor Center: "The Group Campsite was really big. It had 5-6 platforms, privys, big fire ring, a grill, a beatbox, a large pavilion w/picnic tables and a real full sized bathroom only 100 yards away."
Wildlife awareness: Bears require proper food storage systems when camping with horses. "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes," notes one camper who stayed at Stokes.
Site selection strategy: Different campground loops offer varying proximity to equestrian trails and water sources. "Due to cooler temps there were really no bugs to complain about while camping," Josh S. reports, highlighting how seasonal timing affects camping comfort at Lake Ocquittunk.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin options: Liberty Harbor RV Park provides alternative accommodations for families with younger children. "Very plain & functional, no frills but right on the harbor & on the very edge of Jersey City, close to a ferry & the train that takes u across to New York City," explains Emily L.
Water activities: Multiple lakes offer swimming opportunities during summer months with designated horse watering areas separate from human recreation zones. "Clear streams and lake. Stunning overall. Lake Ocquittunk campground had showers, flush toilets and was popular with families," notes Stephanie T.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer ranger programs focusing on local ecology and horse management. As W L. found: "The cabins are reasonably priced and well-appointed, if a bit rustic. The interior features are just what you'd expect for getting away for the weekend."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Camp Starry Night at Gulyan Farms offers specific amenities for RVers with horses. "We are avid campers ranging from our early days of remote, rustic tent camping with just the two of us and 20 years later upgraded to our travel trailer that houses our two kids and two dogs," shares Jen R. about her experience adjusting to different camping styles.
Parking configurations: Horse trailer parking requires advance planning at most campgrounds. According to Frank J. at Spruce Run: "My campsite was 34W, right next the reservoir. Nice location however the website said it was full shade. The picnic table was in shade. The spot for the RV was full sun."
Water and waste management: Most equestrian sites require additional planning for water access. "You can launch your kayak easily from the shore. The sites are large, many have nice mix of sun and shade," explains Ruette W. about Spruce Run, where site selection impacts resource access.
Guide
